Zesty Cucumber Namasu Salad
This refreshing Zesty Cucumber Namasu Salad captures the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine, perfect for serving on a warm day or as a side dish during a summer gathering. Inspired by recipes from Yokosuka, Japan, this dish combines the crisp texture of cucumbers with a tangy, sweet vinegar dressing and a hint of ginger, delivering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Enjoy it as a standalone salad or as a vibrant accompaniment to grilled meats and rice dishes.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumbers
3 cups (very thinly sliced)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to season)
Gingerroot
1 teaspoon (finely chopped or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
White Wine Vinegar
1/2 cup (for the dressing)
Sugar
2 tablespoons (to sweeten the dressing)
Instructions
1
Begin by partially peeling the cucumbers, creating alternating stripes for an attractive presentation. Slice them very thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline.
2
Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Gently toss to coat and let them stand for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
3
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped gingerroot (or ground ginger), white wine vinegar, and sugar. Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
4
After 15 minutes, press the cucumbers between your hands or use a clean kitchen towel to remove excess liquid. This will ensure that the salad remains crisp.
5
Add the drained cucumbers to the prepared dressing and mix well, ensuring each slice is coated in the sauce.
6
Transfer the cucumber salad to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7
Serve chilled as a refreshing relish or salad alongside your favorite meals.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cucumber Namasu Salad?
Zesty Cucumber Namasu Salad is a refreshing Japanese dish that combines crisp, thinly sliced cucumbers with a tangy, sweet vinegar dressing and a hint of ginger.
What is the origin of this cucumber salad recipe?
This recipe is inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine, specifically recipes from Yokosuka, Japan.
How many ingredients are needed for Namasu Salad?
This recipe requires 5 main ingredients: cucumbers, salt, gingerroot, white wine vinegar, and sugar.
What type of vinegar should I use for the dressing?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of white wine vinegar to create the tangy dressing.
How should I prepare the cucumbers for this salad?
You should partially peel the cucumbers to create alternating stripes and then slice them very thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline.
Why do I need to salt the cucumbers before making the salad?
Sprinkling salt on the cucumbers draws out excess moisture, which helps ensure the final salad remains crisp and flavorful.
How long should the cucumbers stand with salt?
The cucumbers should stand for about 15 minutes to allow the salt to draw out the liquid.
Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh gingerroot?
Yes, you can use either 1 teaspoon of finely chopped gingerroot or 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger.
Is this Zesty Cucumber Namasu Salad vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly as it consists of vegetables, vinegar, and seasonings.
How much sugar is in the dressing?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
How do I remove the excess liquid from the cucumbers after salting?
You can press the cucumbers between your hands or squeeze them inside a clean kitchen towel to remove the liquid.
Should the salad be served warm or cold?
The salad should be served chilled as a refreshing side dish or relish.
How long should the salad refrigerate before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors of the ginger, vinegar, and sugar to meld together.
What can I serve with Zesty Cucumber Namasu Salad?
It is a vibrant accompaniment to grilled meats, rice dishes, or any traditional Japanese meal.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dish because it uses fresh vegetables and a simple vinegar-based dressing.
Why is it called 'Zesty'?
The 'zesty' flavor comes from the combination of the tangy white wine vinegar and the sharp, aromatic hint of ginger.
How many cups of cucumbers do I need?
The recipe requires 3 cups of very thinly sliced cucumbers.
What is the best tool for slicing the cucumbers?
A mandoline is highly recommended for achieving the consistent, very thin slices necessary for this salad.
Does this recipe contain fat?
This recipe is naturally fat-free as it does not include oil or fatty ingredients.
What does 'Namasu' mean?
Namasu is a Japanese dish typically consisting of raw vegetables and seafood marinated in sweetened vinegar.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it at least 30 minutes in advance is recommended, and it can stay fresh in the refrigerator for several hours.
What is the texture of the salad?
The texture is crisp and light due to the thin slicing and the process of drawing out excess water with salt.
How much salt is used in the recipe?
1/2 teaspoon of salt is used for seasoning and moisture extraction.
What category does this recipe belong to?
This recipe belongs to the Japanese Salad, Side Dish, and Appetizer categories.
Is the ginger flavor strong?
The ginger provides a subtle 'hint' of flavor that complements the sweetness and acidity without being overpowering.
How should the dressing be mixed?
Whisk the vinegar, sugar, and ginger together in a separate bowl until the sugar is completely dissolved before adding to the cucumbers.
Can I use regular table salt?
Yes, any standard salt will work for drawing out the moisture from the cucumbers.
What makes this salad perfect for summer gatherings?
Its refreshing, chilled nature and light flavor profile make it an ideal side dish for warm weather and outdoor meals.
How many servings does this make?
While serving count isn't specified, the use of 3 cups of cucumbers typically serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish.
Is this salad spicy?
No, it is not spicy. It is tangy and slightly sweet with a mild warmth from the ginger.